Microwave Nippy Cheese Broccoli
A quick and cheesy broccoli side dish featuring melted cheddar sauce, perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, with fresh tomato garnish for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place frozen broccoli spears and florets, icy side up, in a 2-quart utility dish, alternating spears and florets.
- In a 2-cup measure, combine margarine, flour, and salt.
- Mix the ingredients and slowly stir in milk until smooth.
- Heat in the microwave on High power for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce down the center of the dish over the broccoli.
- Garnish with sliced tomato.
- Return to the microwave and heat for 1 to 2 minutes to warm the tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider substituting half-and-half for the milk. If you're out of margarine, butter works just as well. You can also use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. This microwave method saves time, but you can also bake it for a deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Microwave Nippy Cheese Broccoli as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Flavored Bran Muffins for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a quinoa salad or a light pasta dish. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the presentation and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before reheating. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Nippy Cheese Broccoli contains roughly 767 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2459mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes to soften it before adding it to the dish. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly, affecting the creaminess of the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving. Adjust the amount to your spice preference for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).